All articles tagged with #molybdenum
New research shows molybdenum, a scarce metal in early Earth's oceans, was crucial for the metabolism of the planet's earliest life forms, dating back to about 3.7–3.1 billion years ago; the study suggests both molybdenum- and tungsten-using enzymes were present early, likely supported by hydrothermal vent systems, and it reframes how we think about life's requirements and the search for life beyond Earth.
A new study traces the deep-time origins of molybdenum and tungsten use in biology, reconstructing when Mo- and W-dependent enzymes, their cofactor biosynthesis, and transport systems first appeared. Molecular dating places Mo/W utilization back to the early Archaean (~3.7–3.1 billion years ago), suggesting that Mo-based biochemistry was already shaping early microbial evolution despite purportedly limited Mo availability in ancient oceans and highlighting the ancient link between Mo cofactors and nitrogenase-driven nitrogen fixation.
A Nature Communications study shows Mo-84 and Mo-86 near the proton–neutron balance line (N≈Z) exhibit an island of inversion, with protons and neutrons engaging in particle-hole excitations that deform the nucleus. Using Be targets and Mo-92 beams, gamma rays were detected by GRETINA and TRIPLEX, revealing symmetry-breaking structure in these proton-rich isotopes—a finding that challenges traditional nuclear models and expands where inversions can occur.
Researchers have developed a new method to improve the efficiency of electrocatalysts for hydrogen production. By adding molybdenum to a nickel-cobalt phosphide catalyst and using a gradient hydrothermal process, nanoneedles were formed on the catalyst's surface, creating a unique microstructure. This microstructure enhanced electron transfer and the release of hydrogen bubbles, resulting in improved performance. The catalyst showed stability and reliability over 100 hours of testing, and future studies will explore its application in different solutions and alternative substrates.